South Korea Faces Impeachment Vote Amid Protests

In South Korea, the ruling party has declared it will not back a vote to impeach President Yun following his controversial attempt to impose martial law. The upheaval, sparked by Yun's announcement on Tuesday, led to mass protests from various political groups and citizens opposing the decree. While the parliament swiftly reversed the martial law decision, significant political pressure remains with the scheduled impeachment vote set for Saturday night at 7:00 PM. The opposition currently has 192 votes but needs 200 for the impeachment to pass, which requires at least eight defectors from the ruling People's Power Party (PPP). Although PPP has expressed solidarity in opposing the impeachment, five members have publicly declared themselves undecided, suggesting potential rifts that could facilitate the opposition's bid. Political analysts, including Dr. Yuk Yong-im, assert that if the motion passes, the president loses powers instantaneously, leading to a constitutional review by Korea's Constitutional Court within 60 days to affirm the impeachment. The urgency of this political drama has fueled widespread public demonstrations both in favor and against President Yun, showcasing a divided nation as the clock ticks toward the critical vote.